When it comes to our barking furry friends, one of the scariest threats to their health comes in the form of viruses. Luckily, most of these can be prevented with dog vaccinations at animal clinics, like Perry Animal Hospital in Georgia. The veterinarians here emphasize the importance of education when it comes to these diseases and their vaccinations.

One of the most dangerous viruses, canine parvovirus, can lead to severe illness in unvaccinated puppies. Generally transmitted through contact with animal feces, the contagious virus can cause diarrhea, vomiting, anemia, and weakness. When it comes to pet care, the vaccine’s integrity is essential. This is why the veterinary clinic receives the vaccine on ice and immediately places it into a refrigerator. If there is any question about its integrity, they discard it.

When taking a puppy to a veterinary clinic, it is important to learn about various dog vaccinations and the diseases they prevent. To protect your puppy from canine parvovirus, for example, veterinarians at Perry Animal Hospital recommend that puppies receive the vaccine at six to eight weeks of age, with boosters every three weeks, until the puppy is 16 weeks old.

If, however, the puppy is not yet old enough to receive the vaccinations, then exposure to other unvaccinated dogs should be limited. Whether visiting the park or the pet store, it can be difficult to know if any unvaccinated dogs have relieved themselves in the area. Similarly, when visiting the veterinary clinic, hold the puppy or sit him on your lap throughout the visit.